Mixed-Media Multi-Strand Leather Necklace with Repoussé Silver Charms and Semi-Precious Beads
Jewelry (Necklace) in the Boho-Chic or Artisan Folk style · Unsigned Artisan Workshop. The piece is a studio-made 'fusion' item combining Western bohemian elements with Southwestern and East Asian-inspired silver components.
Pattern: Non-patterned / Unique Artisan Assembly. Often referred to as 'Talisman' or 'Found Objects' style jewelry.
Type
Jewelry (Necklace) in the Boho-Chic or Artisan Folk style
Maker
Unsigned Artisan Workshop. The piece is a studio-made 'fusion' item combining Western bohemian elements with Southwestern and East Asian-inspired silver components.
Material
Mixed materials including genuine brown leather cords, high-purity silver elements (likely .925 sterling or .900 coin silver), base metal findings, turquoise, coral-colored glass/stones, and textile fiber wraps.
Dimensions
Estimated length of 18-20 inches (princess length); weight is approximately 45-60 grams depending on whether the beads are solid stone or glass.
Description
An eclectic and textured artisan necklace featuring a triple-strand brown leather base. The focal arrangement consists of stamped silver medallions reminiscent of old coins, interspersed with bright turquoise, coral, and hand-wrapped fiber spacers. This piece embodies a 'souvenir' or 'talisman' design language, intended to look like a collection of gathered treasures.
Key Features
Multiple leather strands; fanned shell-motif silver end caps; mixed turquoise and coral accents; thread-bound decorative segments.
Material & Composition
Mixed materials including genuine brown leather cords, high-purity silver elements (likely .925 sterling or .900 coin silver), base metal findings, turquoise, coral-colored glass/stones, and textile fiber wraps.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and antiqued finish to provide a rustic appearance. Decorative techniques include repoussé (stamped coin-like charms), thread-wrapped bundles (zari style), and cast decorative end caps with fanned shell motifs.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks are not readily visible on the charms or end caps in the image. High-quality artisan pieces of this style sometimes hide a 925 or STERLING stamp on the lobster clasp or the underside of the silver bells/caps.
Construction Details
Hand-assembled using multi-strand leather cord. The charms and beads are secured through a combination of wire-wrapping, knotting, and fiber-binding (macramé-adjacent techniques). The silver caps are likely cast and machine-pressed.
Functional Features
Lobster claw clasp closure with silver cone-shaped end caps to tidy the leather cord terminations; includes a small charm dangle at the clasp.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a wearable jewelry item; the leather cord acts as the primary structure for carrying the weight of the silver ornaments.
Craftsmanship Details
Moderate artisan quality. The use of thread wrapping indicates hand-finishing, while the charms themselves are likely stamped in multiples. The balance of the piece is designed to lie flat against the collarbone.
Authentication Indicators
Solder junctions at the jump rings appear manual; the oxidation on the silver is consistent with intentional 'antique' finishing rather than natural sulfur tarnish over 100 years.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in a studio setting, possibly in the Southwestern United States, Mexico, or Thailand, which are known for exporting high-quality mixed-media silver jewelry.
Era & Period
Contemporary Artisan (late 20th to early 21st Century). It reflects the 'Boho-Chic' movement influenced by Navajo and Tibetan aesthetic traditions.
Age Estimate
Circa 1995-2015 based on the style of the lobster clasp, the type of leather cord used, and the popularity of the 'global traveler' aesthetic.
Cultural Significance
Represents the globalization of jewelry design, blending Native American-style turquoise use with European leatherwork and Asian-style textile-wrapped beads.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The leather shows minor darkening from use; silver elements show intentional oxidation (patina) to highlight details; textile wraps appear intact without fraying. Total condition grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
$75.00 - $185.00. Value depends heavily on whether the silver is verified as Sterling (.925) and the quality of the stones (genuine vs. dyed).
Care & Maintenance
Do not submerge in jewelry dips as the chemicals will destroy the leather and fiber. Use a silver polishing cloth for the metal bits only. Avoid moisture to prevent the leather from rotting or stretching.
Similar Pieces
Pieces by Sundance Catalog, Chan Luu, or Silpada often feature similar mixed-media construction with leather and sterling silver components.
Interesting Facts
The 'coin necklace' style is centuries old, historically used in various cultures as a portable display of wealth. Modern versions like this are often called 'Statement Pieces' in the fashion industry.